Editor’s Note: In commemoration of Red Cross Month and Women’s History Month, we are publishing a series of #LeadLikeClara profiles featuring local women volunteer leaders who emulate the leadership characteristics of Red Cross founder Clara Barton.

By Judith Weeks

March is American Red Cross and Women’s History Month. Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross was a woman of great historical importance for her humanitarian work. Today, volunteer Kathy Mullen represents outstanding women’s leadership in the American Red Cross. She is wonderful to work with, making everyone feel welcome and appreciated! Kathy’s energy motivates volunteer teams! In recognition of her leadership, she recently received the Exceptional Volunteer Award for Disaster Cycle Services.

When asked about Clara Barton’s leadership, Kathy recognized her persistence in a man’s world. “It was remarkable what she did. There were not a lot of women in Civil War battlefields. It was phenomenal! It was always difficult for Clara to gain attention. Today, it is nice to think this doesn’t matter in the Red Cross. Women have equal opportunity for leadership.” Kathy understands this because when she began her career 40 years ago in the corporate world, “it was a male dominated organization and difficult to gain attention.”

On retirement, Kathy wanted to give back. Thirty years ago, her young son, Tim, had a blood disorder, receiving blood transfusions. “ It was something I always remember and am grateful for what they were able to do. It always stuck in my heart.” She volunteered to be a Blood Donor Ambassador. Impressed by all the Red Cross does outside the “Blood World” she expanded her volunteer activities. Today she is:

• Regional Preparedness Lead for Chester and Delaware Counties
• Southeast Pennsylvania Youth Preparedness Lead
• Home Fire Campaign Lead for Chester and Delaware Counties
• Blood Donor Ambassador
• Disaster Cycle Services Volunteer
• Community Outreach Team Member for Chester and Delaware Counties

Teaching Pedro Preparedness classes for young children is special for Kathy.  She remembers after a class, a little girl approached with a drawing of Kathy wearing her shirt with a Red Cross. The young girl explained “I just love that you are here today.“  She gave the drawing to Kathy. “It was the sweetest thing, and the American Red Cross just resounded with her!” To this day she carries the drawing on the cover of her training binder.  

While installing home smoke alarms, Kathy enjoys meeting and talking with people, and most importantly, getting the word out that the American Red Cross will install these alarms for free. “Just call and they will come out!”

Kathy is a mother and grandmother with son Tim and daughter Kaitlin in their 30’s and three beautiful grandchildren, Charlie, Penny and Josie.  Husband Barry helps her with her all Red Cross efforts. She’s also a singer, performing in the area, and had the honor of singing with the Philly Pops!

The Red Cross has so many volunteer opportunities that allow for choosing a match with your interests and passion. And according to Kathy, “it’s rewarding and it makes you feel good!”